The Blackthorn or Prunus Spinosa is a deciduous shrub which can grow to twelve feet in height. . It makes an excellent barrier hedge due to the strong and prickly thorns which would make it very difficult for intruders to penetrate. Blackthorns would probably have been the hedges in “Sleeping Beauty” through which the prince had to fight his way to rescue the princess. It is also possible that the crown of thorns on Christ’s head was blackthorn. They can stand firm against strong winds and are attractive to wildlife such as birds and small creatures which can make their home in the hedge. Flowers which are usually white and have 5 petals appear in March and the dark blue berries come in September ready for harvesting in October.
The Blackthorn is used in magick and represents the crone aspect of the triple goddess and the waning moon. It is used for protection spells and also for anything related to purification or getting rid of negativity. This could be to cleanse the home and environment of negative energy or it could be to assist us in releasing negative or angry thoughts and fears. You could carry dried flowers or leaves in a talisman or use them in a potpourri in the home. It can also be used in exorcism spells. The blackthorn makes an excellent wand as the wood is hard and strong.
Blackthorn has long been used as an herbal medicine and is still used today. The flowers can be made into a tea which can assist with stomach problems. You can use the flowers fresh from the bush or else dry them and use them later. The leaves can also be used to make a mouthwash to assist with sore throats. The berries – sloe berries – can be used to help a variety of conditions including indigestion, skin problems such as eczema, colds, kidney stones and prostrate problems. Both the fruit and the leaves of the blackthorn are rich in vitamin C and make an excellent tonic. They can be used to make jams, juices or wine. Sloe gin is a liqueur made from sloe berries steeped in gin and can be a lovely comforting and very enjoyable drink in the winter. It is often drunk at Yuletide.
Jill Graham is a professional psychic tarot reader, energy healer and life coach assisting you to move you past blocks and obstacles to creating and living the life you truly desire. Available wherever you are in the world via Skype, email, or phone. www.healinglieswithin.com.
Ravenhawks' Magazine Magick for Mind Body and Soul 